Dual-Use Blanket for Infant Car Seat Carrier

ABSTRACT

Disclosed is a dual-use blanket for covering an infant car seat carrier, and for use as a conventional infant blanket. The device comprises a blanket having a built-in aperture that extends over the handle on an infant carrier, a flap being attached to the blanket on a first side, and removably attached on a second side by a fastener, and a drawstring for attaching the blanket to the infant carrier. When the carrier handle is extended, the blanket can be placed thereover, allowing the handle to extend through the aperture. This provides a cover for the carrier that prevents the infant or child contained therein from being exposed to the elements. The blanket can be removed from the carrier and used as a conventional blanket. In this configuration, the flap is closed with the fastener, which prevents exposure to the elements through the aperture.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/660,494 filed on Jun. 15, 2012, entitled “Cover Me Safe.” The above identified patent application is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety to provide continuity of disclosure.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to the field of blankets. More specifically, the present invention pertains to a dual-use blanket for covering an infant car seat carrier, and for use as a conventional infant blanket.

Infant car seat carriers, otherwise known as child safety seats, are seats designed specifically to protect infants and small children from injury or death during automobile collisions. Many automobile manufacturers integrate attachment systems for child safety seats directly into the vehicle design, which provides a secure connection between the carrier and the vehicle. Most states require children, as defined by age, weight, and/or height, to use a government-approved child safety seat when riding in a vehicle. In the United States, baby car seats are legally required to transport children up to the age of 2 in a motor vehicle.

Experts often warn that parents use car seats incorrectly, making them unnecessarily dangerous to the child. During the winter, many infants wear added layers of clothing, such as sweaters and heavy winter coats. These extra layers, however, can impair the proper use of the car seat. One of the basics of proper car seat installation is that the child is buckled snugly into the car seat itself. When a child is wearing a thick sweater or winter coat, it is difficult to determine if the harness straps are adjusted properly. The extra layers can add a significant amount of slack, reducing the level of protection in a crash. If the harness straps are loose, the child can be injured or can even fly out of the car seat in the event of a collision.

In addition to use in vehicles, many infant car seat carriers are adapted for use outside of a vehicle without removing the child from the seat. The open top of the carrier, however, often presents a problem when it starts raining or the sun is shining brightly. Many parents and caretakers place a blanket over the entire car seat to protect the child, but that eliminates access to the carrying handle for the adult. If a user attempts to pick up the seat with a blanket covering the handle, he or she may quickly lose their grip and drop the seat, which can lead to injury for the baby.

The present invention overcomes the problems inherent in conventional blankets with a device specifically adapted for use on an infant car seat carrier. The device comprises a blanket with a built-in aperture that extends over the carrier to allow a parent or caretaker access to the handle. The aperture includes a fastening means for use as a conventional infant blanket. When the carrier handle is extended, the blanket can be placed thereover, allowing the handle to extend through the aperture. The blanket may also include an elastic drawstring around the perimeter that allows the blanket to fit snugly around the carrier.

2. Description of the Prior Art

Devices have been disclosed in the prior art that relate to infant blankets. These include devices that have been patented and published in patent application publications. These devices generally relate to infant blankets specially tailored for use with an infant car seat carrier. The following is a list of devices deemed most relevant to the present disclosure, which are herein described for the purposes of highlighting and differentiating the unique aspects of the present invention, and further highlighting the drawbacks existing in the prior art.

Specifically, Espinoza, U.S. Pat. No. 5,432,965 discloses an infant blanket for use in combination with an infant carrying seat having a handle. The blanket includes a border strip at its perimeter and a handle reception slit spaced from the perimeter so as to receive the handle of an infant carrying seat therethrough. The blanket further includes fastening strips, such as hook and loop type pieces attached thereto so that the blanket can be secured about an infant. The blanket is placed over an infant carrying device and the infant is then covered with the blanket. The slit in the blanket allows the user to fully access the handle, while the infant still retains the benefits of having the blanket wrapped around his or her carrier. While this device includes a blanket having a built-in aperture, the Espinoza device is intended for use only with an infant carrier, and is not adapted for use as a conventional blanket. The present invention includes a fastening means to secure the aperture in a closed position for use as a conventional blanket. Additionally, the present invention provides an elastic drawstring around the perimeter thereof that can secure the blanket to the car seat carrier when tightened, and allows the blanket to retain its square or rectangular shape when released.

Similar to Espinoza, Mortenson, U.S. Pat. No. 5,730,490 discloses a cover for an infant carrier seat that is supported by the carrier's handle and creates a protective tent-like enclosure for the seated infant. The cover allows the carrier handle to be accessible to the caregiver while the cover protects the infant. The cover is flexibly attached to the carrier's handle, which supports the cover with straps. The handle attachment system and elastic perimeter edging adjustably attaches the cover to the infant car seat carrier enabling the cover to fit many brands of carriers. The use of breathable textile cover material combined with ventilation panels and windows provide ventilated, water-resistant protection and visibility between the infant and the caregiver. The '490 device, while providing a cover for an infant carrier, does not disclose a blanket, but instead functions as a tent or canopy to cover the carrier. The present invention can be removed from the infant carrier and utilized as a conventional infant blanket.

Roh, U.S. Pat. No. 6,039,393 discloses a protective canopy and a sealing element that can interchangeably and flexibly seal around a variety of baby seats. The device may also contain a removable hood that shields a portion of an insect resistant mesh so that side mesh remains open for air and viewing of the occupant under the protective cover. The hood may be attached at an approximate midpoint of the canopy to allow versatility in deploying the hood in a rearward direction and fastening the hood with an attachment element. The protective cover may include a protective foot shield located under the hood that protects the feet of an occupant from a biting or flying insect. The Roh device, similar to Mortenson, discloses an apparatus for covering an infant or small child within an infant carrier. This device, however, does not fold flat for use as a conventional infant blanket for use apart from the infant carrier.

Additionally, Ranalli, U.S. Pat. No. 4,993,090 discloses a blanket for covering a child in a car seat fitted with a harness for restraining the child in the seat. The blanket comprises a plurality of apertures through which restraining members of the harness can be passed, thus enabling the harness to be fastened tightly around the child, and the blanket then to be wrapped around the child and the harness. The Ranalli device is intended for placement between the infant and the carrier, and includes apertures to allow the harness to pass through the blanket and attach to the child. The present invention covers over a child sitting in an infant carrier, and is not positioned between the child and the seat.

Finally, Kagan, U.S. Pat. No. 5,897,164 discloses a blanket comprising a blanket panel having an interior region, a first major surface, a second major surface, and an outer perimeter. A throat aperture is positioned in the interior region of the blanket panel, which provides open communication between the first and second major surfaces of the blanket panel. The aperture is of a sufficient size to allow the obstruction to be positioned in the throat aperture in a manner such that the obstruction can pass through the throat aperture from one major surface of the blanket panel to the other. A channel extends from the throat aperture to the outer perimeter of the blanket panel. When used with a child supporting structure having an interfering obstruction, the blanket covers the child in a manner such that the obstruction is positioned in the throat aperture, and the channel is in the closed configuration. The Kagan device provides an infant blanket that is adapted for use with a child sitting in an infant carrier or infant swing. Similar to Ranalli, this device is positioned between the carrier and the infant. The present invention is positioned over an infant carrier to allow the handle to extend through the aperture. It is not positioned between the infant and the carrier.

The devices disclosed in the prior art provide covers for use with a conventional infant carrier. These devices are adapted for use only when an infant or small child is within the carrier. The present invention is adapted for use apart from the carrier. The aperture within the blanket can be closed with a fastening means, and the elastic surrounding the perimeter of the blanket can be released, which allows the present invention to retain a square or rectangular shape. If attachment to a carrier is desired, the aperture can be opened, and the elastic can be tightened around the carrier. This provides a dual use blanket that prevents the need for carrying additional blankets for use independent of the carrier.

In light of the prior art and the disclosed elements of the present invention, it is submitted that the present invention substantially diverges in design elements from the prior art. Consequently, it is clear that the present invention is not described by the art and that a need exists for a dual-use blanket for covering an infant car seat carrier, and for use as a conventional infant blanket. In this regard, the instant invention substantially fulfills these needs.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

In view of the foregoing disadvantages inherent in the known types of blankets now present in the prior art, the present invention provides a new blanket wherein the same can be utilized for providing convenience for the user when covering an infant car seat carrier, and when used as a conventional infant blanket.

It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a new and improved dual-use blanket device that has all of the advantages of the prior art and none of the disadvantages.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a dual-use blanket for covering an infant car seat carrier, and for use as a conventional infant blanket.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a blanket having a built-in aperture that extends over the carrier to allow a parent or caretaker access to the handle.

Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a blanket having a fastening means for the built-in aperture to allow the aperture to open and close as desired.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a blanket having an elastic drawstring around the perimeter that allows the blanket to fit snugly around the carrier.

A final object of the present invention is to provide a blanket that may be readily fabricated from materials that permit relative economy and are commensurate with durability.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTIONS OF THE DRAWINGS

Although the characteristic features of this invention will be particularly pointed out in the claims, the invention itself and manner in which it may be made and used may be better understood after a review of the following description, taken in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein like numeral annotations are provided throughout.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an infant carrier with the present invention in a pre-installation position.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the present invention installed over an infant carrier with the elastic drawstring tightened.

FIG. 3 a is a view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention, wherein the blanket includes elastic rubber strips in each corner.

FIG. 3 b is a view of an alternate embodiment of the present invention, wherein the blanket includes a triangle and hook in each corner.

FIG. 4 is a close-up perspective view of the aperture fastening means.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference is made herein to the attached drawings. Like reference numerals are used throughout the drawings to depict like or similar elements of the blanket. For the purposes of presenting a brief and clear description of the present invention, the preferred embodiment will be discussed as used for covering an infant car seat carrier, and for use as a conventional infant blanket. The figures are intended for representative purposes only and should not be considered to be limiting in any respect.

Referring now to FIG. 1, there is shown a perspective view of an infant carrier with the present invention in a pre-installation position. The device is comprised of a blanket 11 having a border that is designed to fit over top of an infant carrier 51. The blanket 11 resembles a conventional infant blanket, and is constructed from cotton, polyester, nylon, water proof material or a combination thereof. The blanket 11 can be manufactured in a variety of sizes and shapes, and can further include rounded corners. The center of the blanket 11 includes a built-in aperture 12 that extends over the handle 52 in order to allow the user to firmly grip the carrier handle 52. The aperture 12 includes a fastening means for use apart from the carrier 51. When the handle 52 is moved into position for carrying, the blanket 11 can be placed thereover so that the handle 52 extends through the aperture 12. The blanket 11 may also include an elastic drawstring (not shown) around the perimeter that allows the blanket to fit snugly around the carrier 52. The device allows parents and caretakers to easily grip the handle 52 while shielding the infant or small child from the elements.

The aperture 12 is formed from a slit/opening near the center of the blanket 12 that can be accessed by a fastening means, or can optionally remain open at all times. The aperture 12 is large enough to provide access to the handle 52. A parent or caretaker can place his or her hand through the aperture 12 to access the handle 52. This allows a parent or caretaker to apply the blanket 11 over the carrier 51 while ensuring that the carrier 51 is being transported with a firm grip on the handle 52. The aperture 12 allows the parent or caretaker to access the handle 52 while the blanket 11 is in position and covering the carrier 51 to provide protection to the infant or child therein.

Referring now to FIG. 2, there is shown a perspective view of the present invention installed over an infant carrier, with the elastic drawstring tightened. The blanket 11 can optionally include a fastening means for attachment to the carrier. In a first embodiment, the fastening means comprises a drawstring 13 that surrounds the border of the blanket 11. The drawstring 13 is preferably comprised of elastic or another suitable material that can stretch and flex. This ensures that the blanket 11 remains in position on the carrier. The drawstring 13 is secured in a tightened position with a fastener, such as a cord lock 14 or similar device. When extended, the drawstring 13 allows the blanket 11 to lie in an extended or flat position. When pulled tight, the drawstring 13 secures the border of the blanket 11 around the base of the carrier. This prevents the blanket 11 from inadvertently being removed from the carrier, and additionally prevents wind, rain, or snow from entering between the blanket 11 and carrier.

In addition to a drawstring 13, the blanket 11 can include a variety of other fastening means. As shown in FIG. 3 a, the blanket 11 can alternatively include elastic rubber strips 15 in each corner or all along the outer border of the blanket 11 to secure the blanket 11 over the portable car seat. In a second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 3 b, the blanket 11 can include triangles 16 in each corner. The triangles 16 include a small hook 17 that can be tucked under the blanket 16 when not in use, and extended therefrom for attachment to an infant carrier. This is particularly beneficial for parents or caretakers when transporting an infant or child outside the vehicle. The hooks 17 allow the blanket 11 to be quickly attached and removed from the carrier.

Referring now to FIG. 4, there is shown a close-up perspective view of the aperture fastening means. The aperture 12 is positioned in near the center of the blanket 11. The aperture 12 includes a flap 18 that is sewn or attached to the blanket 11 at a first side, and attached at a second side by a fastening means. The fastening means can comprise hook 19 and loop 20 material that is sewn into the blanket 11. The fastening means can also comprise snaps, buttons, magnets, zippers, or any other suitable fastener. The fastening means can be attached to the upper or lower side of the blanket 11. In either location, the parent or caretaker can fold the flap 19 under and back towards the blanket 11 for access to the carrier handle.

The flap 18 is sewn in one side of the blanket 11 and held in position on the opposite side by the fastening means. When the blanket 11 is being used, the flap 18 can be opened for access to the handle for transport. If access to the handle not needed, the aperture 12 can be closed with the fastening means, which enables the blanket 11 to be used with the flap 18 secured in position on the blanket 11. In this configuration, the flap 18 prevents exposure to the elements through the aperture 12.

The blanket may be constructed for use in various configurations. The blanket can act as a protective cover for an infant or small child when placed in an infant carrier. The blanket can be constructed of an insulating material to retain warmth, and/or can include a waterproof exterior for protection from rain or snow. The blanket can alternately be constructed of a lightweight material for providing protection from the sun in the summer months. The blanket can additionally be formed of a mesh material to afford protection from flying or stinging insects, while providing visibility for the infant sitting inside the carrier. The blanket may additionally be constructed of multiple layers, with an insulating layer, waterproof layer, lightweight layer, mesh layer, or a combination thereof. Regardless of the materials used, the present invention provides a protective barrier for an infant or child sitting inside a carrier, and allows a parent to conveniently cover the infant or child while carrying him or her with a secure grip to or from a vehicle.

It is therefore submitted that the instant invention has been shown and described in what is considered to be the most practical and preferred embodiments. It is recognized, however, that departures may be made within the scope of the invention and that obvious modifications will occur to a person skilled in the art. With respect to the above description then, it is to be realized that the optimum dimensional relationships for the parts of the invention, to include variations in size, materials, shape, form, function and manner of operation, assembly and use, are deemed readily apparent and obvious to one skilled in the art, and all equivalent relationships to those illustrated in the drawings and described in the specification are intended to be encompassed by the present invention.

Therefore, the foregoing is considered as illustrative only of the principles of the invention. Further, since numerous modifications and changes will readily occur to those skilled in the art, it is not desired to limit the invention to the exact construction and operation shown and described, and accordingly, all suitable modifications and equivalents may be resorted to, falling within the scope of the invention. 

I claim: 1) A covering for an infant car seat carrier containing a handle, comprising: a blanket having a border and a built-in aperture that extends over said handle on said infant carrier; a flap being attached to said blanket on a first side, and removably attached on a second side by a fastening means; and a fastening means for attaching said blanket to said infant carrier. 2) The device of claim 1, wherein said aperture is formed from an opening on said blanket. 3) The device of claim 2, wherein said aperture provides access to said handle on said infant carrier. 4) The device of claim 1, wherein said fastening means for attaching said blanket to said infant carrier comprises a drawstring that surrounds said border of said blanket. 5) The device of claim 4, wherein said drawstring is secured in a tightened position with a cord lock. 6) The device of claim 4, wherein said drawstring can be released to allow said blanket to lie in an extended or flat position, or tightened around said border to prevent inadvertent removal thereof. 7) The device of claim 1, wherein said fastening means for attaching said blanket to said infant carrier comprises elastic rubber strips in each corner of said border. 8) The device of claim 1, wherein said fastening means for attaching said blanket to said infant carrier comprises an elastic rubber strip surrounding said border of said blanket. 9) The device of claim 1, wherein said fastening means for attaching said blanket to said infant carrier comprises reinforced triangles in each corner of said border, said triangle including a hook that can be tucked between said triangle and said blanket when not in use, and extended from between said triangle and said blanket for attachment to said infant carrier. 10) The device of claim 1, wherein said fastening means for said flap comprises hook and loop material that is sewn into said blanket. 11) A covering for an infant car seat carrier, comprising: a blanket having a built-in aperture that extends over a handle on said infant carrier; and a flap being attached to said blanket on a first side, and removably attached on a second side by a fastening means. 